Growth in Use of Temporary Accommodation Slows
Council faces challenge to end rough sleeping by 2030
Bed and breakfast now represents only 2% of council provision. Picture: iStock
August 15, 2024
A recent report to the Wandsworth borough Housing Committee has revealed that the use of temporary accommodation has continued to grow but at a slower rate than previous.
The number of homeless families in temporary accommodation across England is at an all-time high but the council still aims to achieve the Mayor of London’s target to end homelessness and ending rough sleeping by 2030.
The committee approved plans to see its use of temporary accommodation reduce over the coming year including the addition of new staff to the team dealing with homelessness, on top of 23 posts that were created in summer 2022.
The use of temporary accommodation has become necessary due to the increased demand and limited supply of housing. The practice is expensive and can have negative impact on residents’ mental health.
‘Jess’ (not their real name) is a Wandsworth resident who lives with multiple sclerosis. Due to difficult family circumstances, she found herself living between different friends.
She said, “I was aware of the services the council offered and got in touch with them to see if they could help me. I worked with a caseworker who was really responsive and I am so happy in my new home. I have a great relationship with my landlady and I’m glad that I was able to stay in the borough, close to all my friends and family.”
‘Sarah’ (not their real name) was living in a private rented home when the landlord suddenly got in touch to tell her they needed the property back. ‘Sarah’ lives with her two young children, both of whom have Autism Spectrum Disorder. After being unable to find anything suitable, her friends advised that she get in touch with the council to discuss social housing and it was able to help her find a property and stay in the private market.
She said, “The caseworker carried out all the checks and spoke with the Agent. They inspected the property and were able to get new window locks fitted. All of the people I spoke to were very sincere and happy to help.
“I’m grateful to the Council for all their help. The whole process was smooth and efficient. They took responsibility of everything and guided me through the process. They have made sure that the house I am getting is safe for me and my children.”
Aydin Dikerdem, Cabinet Member for Housing, said, “In the fact of the worst temporary accommodation homelessness crisis facing local authorities since records began, it is pleasing to note that in Wandsworth Council use of temporary accommodation slowed significantly. Despite all those challenges, we are particularly pleased that the use of bed and breakfast has fallen to just under 2% of all provision.
“We are working hard to tackle this issue head on. That is why we expanded the homelessness prevention team, and already we are seeing this having a positive impact on our service.”
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